Green Bay Packers vs Tennessee Titans: 5 things we want to see

2. Which Outside Linebacker Will Seize a Job?

The Packers appear to be set on the defensive line and in the secondary as far as the primary roster spots, but the linebacking corps has a lot to prove. Nick Perry remains on the Physically Unable to Perform list after ankle surgery and Clay Matthews is likely sitting out the game. That means a lot of snaps for Kyler Fackrell, Vince Biegel, Reggie Gilbert, Chris Odom, and Kendall Donnerson to provide some secondary pass rush that this defense desperately needs.

Fackrell has been working with the starters throughout camp and, with some added bulk, is expected to provide more of an impact in his third year. He’s shown more flashes as well, including beating David Bakhtiari cleanly during a one-on-one pass rush drill. That’s rarer than a zombie’s steak. Biegel has been consistent and always plays with high effort, but needs to show more during the games.

Gilbert has been the most exciting player among the group, and he should be able to cut loose with his roster spot pretty much secured. Odom has slimmed down to adjust to a 3-4 linebacker role and has looked much better this year, while Donnerson’s athleticism is unmatched in the NFC, but his skills need a lot of refinement. If any of them, or multiple, can start to step out in this game, the Packers defense could begin to take a dangerous shape for opponents once September hits.